Jeff Long

Jeff Long is a Democratic member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 27B, which encompasses parts of Calvert and Prince George's counties. Born on November 12, 1996, Long has established himself as a prominent figure in Maryland politics, particularly as one of the first members of Generation Z to serve in the Maryland General Assembly. His background includes experience as a legislative aide and a commitment to various social issues, which he has emphasized throughout his political career.

Early life and career

Jeff Long was born and raised in Maryland, where he attended Huntingtown High School. Following his high school education, he pursued higher education at Liberty University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in clinical psychology. This academic background has informed his perspective on various social issues, particularly those related to mental health and community well-being.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Long has served as a pastor at Communion Church in Huntingtown, Maryland. His role in the church has allowed him to engage with the community on a personal level, addressing issues that affect local residents. Long's early career included working as a legislative aide for several prominent Maryland politicians, including Thomas V. Miller Jr., the former President of the Maryland Senate, as well as state senators Joanne C. Benson and Michael Jackson. This experience provided him with valuable insights into the legislative process and the workings of state government.

In 2020, Long was elected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, where he pledged his support to Joe Biden. He garnered 19.5 percent of the vote in this capacity, marking his initial foray into significant political engagement. His involvement in the convention highlighted his commitment to the Democratic Party and its platform.

In February 2021, following the appointment of Delegate Michael Jackson to the Maryland Senate, Long sought to fill the vacancy in the Maryland House of Delegates. The selection process involved nominations from both the Prince George's County Democratic Committee and the Calvert County Democratic Central Committee. Ultimately, Rachel Jones was appointed to the seat by Governor Larry Hogan. Long challenged Jones in the 2022 Democratic primary, successfully defeating her with a majority of the vote. He subsequently faced no opposition in the general election, solidifying his position as a state legislator.

Legislative service

Jeff Long was sworn into the Maryland House of Delegates on January 11, 2023. His election marked a significant moment in Maryland's political landscape, as he, alongside fellow delegate Joe Vogel, became one of the first members of Generation Z to serve in the Maryland General Assembly. This generational representation has brought a fresh perspective to the legislative body, particularly on issues that resonate with younger constituents.

In the House of Delegates, Long serves on the Environment and Transportation Committee, where he engages with legislation related to environmental policy, infrastructure, and transportation systems. His role on this committee allows him to contribute to discussions and decisions that impact the quality of life for Maryland residents, particularly in areas concerning environmental sustainability and transportation efficiency.

In 2024, Long applied to run as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention once again, this time pledged to Joe Biden. However, he was denied by the Maryland Democratic Party. Subsequently, he was selected as an at-large delegate to the Democratic National Convention, where he supported Kamala Harris following Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race. This involvement demonstrates Long's continued engagement with national politics and his active role within the Democratic Party.

In October 2025, following the appointment of state senator Michael Jackson as the secretary of Maryland State Police, Long announced his intention to seek appointment to the Maryland Senate to fill the remainder of Jackson's term. This move indicates his ambition to further his legislative career and expand his influence within Maryland's political framework.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his political career, Jeff Long has articulated a range of policy positions that reflect his commitment to various social and economic issues. He has described himself as a "fiscal conservative," emphasizing the importance of responsible financial management within state government. His campaign for the House of Delegates highlighted several key areas of focus, including women's rights, enhancing safety in schools, improving the state's transportation infrastructure, and creating a more retiree-friendly environment in Maryland.

In the 2026 legislative session, Long introduced a bill aimed at investigating conditions at the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children in Cheltenham. This initiative was prompted by the rediscovery of a grave site containing an estimated 230 youths buried in unmarked graves, underscoring Long's commitment to addressing historical injustices and advocating for marginalized communities.

Long's district, 27B, encompasses parts of Calvert and Prince George's counties, areas that face unique challenges and opportunities. As a representative of this diverse constituency, Long is tasked with addressing the needs and concerns of his constituents, which range from economic development to environmental protection. His engagement with local issues is critical to his role as a legislator, as he seeks to balance the interests of his district with broader state policies.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Long's personal life has been marked by legal challenges. In 2020, he faced charges related to driving under the influence and driving on a suspended license, which were resolved with probation before judgment. More recently, in April 2023, he was charged with home invasion and first-degree felony assault, allegations that he and his attorneys denied. These legal issues have drawn public attention and may impact his political career moving forward.

Overall, Jeff Long's trajectory in Maryland politics reflects a blend of youthful energy, community engagement, and a commitment to addressing pressing social issues. His ongoing service in the Maryland House of Delegates positions him as a significant figure in the state's legislative landscape, with the potential for further influence in the years to come.